Injured Litmanen out for six weeks

Liverpool's three-pronged assault on cup success was dealt an untimely blow yesterday when Jari Litmanen was told that he may well be sidelined for the next six weeks.

Litmanen fractured a wrist while playing for Finland in the World Cup qualifying defeat by England at Anfield. Although he was able to finish the game after receiving treatment on the touchline, a second examination carried out yesterday has revealed the problem to be more serious than was first thought.

The Finn will miss both legs of Liverpool's Uefa Cup semi-final against his previous club, Barcelona, and also the FA Cup semi-final with Second Division Wycombe Wanderers.

"This really is a massive blow both for the club and for Jari himself," said Liverpool's assistant manager Phil Thompson. "We have some very important games coming up and we really do need all our players fit and available.

"He could be out for six weeks, which is very disappointing. I think that everyone can see what Jari offers to the team - he gives us so many different options.

"He will be very upset to have to sit out the two games against Barcelona because, obviously, he was really looking forward to them."

There was better news of Jamie Redknapp, who is close to a return after an absence of almost nine months. The England midfielder is almost fully recovered from a knee injury that threatened to end his career, and may play for the reserves within a fortnight.

"I'm now back in full training which, after everything I have been through, is good news," said Redknapp. "My knee does still feel sore sometimes, but I remain hopeful."

Fulham have confirmed that they will play at Craven Cottage next season even if, as is likely, they are promoted to the Premiership. The 20,000 capacity includes terraces for 14,000.

The club's managing director Michael Fiddy says that changes will be made only during the season after next. The club will then groundshare while the Cottage is redeveloped as an all-seat stadium.